Partner relationships after mastectomy in women not offered breast reconstruction.

Abstract

BACKGROUND

The present study assessed the degree to which undergoing a mastectomy without reconstructive
surgery negatively impacts the patient's psychological state. We focus on body image
and self-esteem as well as the influence of mastectomy on patient sex lives and partnership
relations.

METHODS

The participants were 60 women, either married or in a relationship, who had had a
mastectomy because of breast cancer and no subsequent reconstructive surgery. A marital
happiness questionnaire was used to evaluate the research problem.

RESULTS

Surgery negatively impacted partnership relations for 33% of participants. In particular,
31% reported deterioration in attractiveness; 31%, a feeling of malaise; and 30%,
that their partners perceived them as less attractive. Moreover, 80% in the youngest
group reported that they covered their body during intimate contact, whereas 58% in
the oldest age group reported the same behaviour. Deterioration in satisfaction with
sex life and in the pleasure of sexual intercourse was indicated by 71% and 77%, respectively.
Correspondingly, 71% also noticed a decrease in sexual activity, with 76% of participants
aged 50-65 years reporting such a decline. The oldest women were also less satisfied
with their sexual intercourse.

CONCLUSIONS

Breast excision due to cancer negatively impacted the quality of sexual life for 71%
of participants. Partnership relations after surgery remained unchanged for 67% of
them. There was significant impact of surgery on the perception of one's own body.